Senator rejoins politics - as a researcher

Politics

Senator Natasha Stott Despoja has become a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Adelaide.

"I am pleased to announce that Senator Natasha Stott Despoja has accepted an offer to become a Visiting Research Fellow with the University's School of History & Politics," said the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha.

"This is an honorary position, recognising the depth of experience Senator Stott Despoja brings to the Discipline of Politics."

As a Visiting Research Fellow, Senator Stott Despoja will conduct research in Politics and engage with students and staff at the University of Adelaide.

The University of Adelaide has had a long association with Senator Stott Despoja, who is a graduate of the University (Bachelor of Arts 1991) and a former President of the Students' Association.

"The University has many links with individuals who have a depth of experience and expertise in specific fields," Professor McWha said.

"These links are of great benefit to the University, our students and staff. This complements the University's academic expertise and is an important part of our research, teaching and community engagement efforts.

"Throughout her career, Senator Stott Despoja has made an outstanding contribution to Australian politics and education. We are very excited about her involvement in Politics at the University of Adelaide," he said.

In 1995, at the age of 26, Natasha Stott Despoja was the youngest woman to enter Federal Parliament, as a Senator for South Australia. From 2001-2002 she was Leader of the Australian Democrats.

She has recently become her party's longest-serving parliamentarian, with more than 12 years of service in the Senate.

Senator Stott Despoja announced in October 2006 that she would not recontest at the 2007 Federal election. Her term in the Senate expires on 30 June 2008.

Story by David Ellis